If pitch fibre is found in your drains, you may find that your plumber recommends repairing or replacing them. Pitch fibre was most often used between the 1940s and 1970s so you may find it in your home, depending on the age of your property. Here’s what you need to know.
What is pitch fibre?
Pitch fibre is a wood cellulose that’s been impregnated with coal tar. If your property is in the UK, it’s also common to find that the material has been strengthened with asbestos. The last thing you want to find in your drainage is asbestos. Here’s some information on why asbestos should be removed:
Why you shouldn’t have pitch fibre drains
Pitch fibre was first used because we were using less water and the drainage system works well with normal water waste. However, the amount of water we use has increased over the years and pitch fibre has been found to work less well with hot water, grease, and oil.
Since we tend to use a lot of hot water, grease, and oil these days, pitch fibre drainage isn’t ideal. Lining your drains could make all the difference. If you are interested in sewer pipe lining Wolverhampton, information can be found here: www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/sewer-repairs-drain-lining-concrete-cutting/drain-repairs/drain-repairs-wolverhampton.
Does my pitch fibre drain need repairs?
You may notice signs of damage in your drains. If that’s the case, your drains should be lined to stop any further damage from happening. Pitch fibre drains tend to last up to forty years so it is likely that your drain is now coming to a point where it requires repairs. The sooner you do this, the less likely you’ll need an excavation to do the job.
What if the pitch fibre isn’t damaged?
You won’t be recommended to replace the lining in your drains if the pitch fibre is undamaged. However, if you have a pipe that is difficult to reach and may cause a lot of inconvenience if damaged, lining the pipe can be a pre-emptive measure that can save you a significant amount of money.
